playful

adjective
UK: /ˈpleɪfʊl/
US: /ˈpleɪfəl/

  1. Someone who is playful likes to play or have fun.

    1. The kitten is very playful.
    2. The puppy's playful nature made him a quick favorite with the children.

  2. Full of fun and humor; not serious.

    1. He gave me a playful wink.
    2. Her playful remarks made the tense meeting a little more bearable for everyone.

  3. Expressing humor or lack of seriousness

    1. The comedian delivered a playful jab at the politician during his routine.
    2. Even in serious discussions, she had a playful glint in her eyes, hinting at her lightheartedness.

Synonyms

jocular sportive merry mischievous frolicsome
playful adverb

  1. In a manner that is full of fun and good humor.

    1. He tapped her arm playful.
    2. The children playful chased each other around the park on a sunny afternoon.

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "playful" in English means: Someone who is playful likes to play or have fun., Full of fun and humor; not serious., Expressing humor or lack of seriousness.

The phonetic transcription of "playful" is /ˈpleɪfʊl/ in British English and /ˈpleɪfəl/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "playful": jocular, sportive, merry, mischievous, frolicsome.

Example usage of "playful": "The kitten is very playful.". More examples on the page.